Navigating the world of tax filing can be a bit like solving a complex puzzle, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, the IRS might send your e-filed return back to you. The big question then becomes: how many times can the IRS reject an e-file before you're out of options?
Don't panic! The good news is that the IRS generally allows for multiple attempts to correct and resubmit your e-filed return. It's not a one-and-done situation. However, there are limits and important deadlines to be aware of. Let's break it down step-by-step to ensure your tax filing journey is as smooth as possible.
Understanding IRS E-File Rejections: Your Path to a Successful Submission
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| How Many Times Can Irs Reject Efile |
Step 1: Don't Fret, Understand Why! (Engage User)
So, you've just received that dreaded "rejected" notification for your e-filed tax return. Your heart might have skipped a beat, and a wave of panic might be setting in. Sound familiar? Take a deep breath! This isn't the end of the world, and in most cases, it's a fixable issue. The very first and most crucial step is to understand why your return was rejected. Your tax software or e-file provider will typically give you a specific rejection code and a brief explanation. This code is your key to unlocking the problem.
Common Reasons for E-File Rejection:
- Mismatched Personal Information: This is perhaps the most frequent culprit. A typo in your Social Security Number (SSN), name, or date of birth for yourself, your spouse, or a dependent can trigger a rejection. The information you provide must exactly match what the IRS has on file with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
- Previously Accepted Return: If a return with your SSN or Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) has already been accepted for the same tax year, your new submission will be rejected. This can happen if you accidentally filed twice or, unfortunately, if you've been a victim of identity theft.
- Dependent Claimed on Another Return: If you claim a dependent who has also been claimed on another tax return (e.g., in shared custody situations), your return will be rejected.
- Incorrect Prior Year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) or IP PIN: To electronically sign your return, you usually need to enter your AGI from the previous tax year or an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) if you have one. If these don't match IRS records, your e-file will be rejected.
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) Mismatch: If you're self-employed or have income from a business, an incorrect EIN on your W-2s or other forms can lead to a rejection.
Step 2: How Many Times Can You Resubmit? The Golden Rule
The IRS generally allows taxpayers to resubmit their e-filed returns up to five times after an initial rejection. This gives you ample opportunity to correct any errors and try again. Each resubmission is a new attempt to get it right.
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The "Grace Period" Rule:
If your return is rejected on or after the tax filing deadline (usually April 15th), the IRS provides a five-calendar-day grace period to correct and resubmit your return electronically. If you successfully resubmit within this window, your return will still be considered timely filed, avoiding late-filing penalties.
It's important to note: This grace period is specifically for corrections and retransmissions of a return that was originally attempted by the deadline. It's not an extension of the deadline itself.
Step 3: Correcting the Errors – Precision is Key
Once you've identified the rejection reason, it's time to fix the error. Your tax software will usually guide you through this process.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Sub-heading: Verifying Personal Information
- Double-check every single character of your SSN, name, and date of birth for yourself, your spouse, and all dependents. Even a single misplaced digit or misspelled letter can cause a rejection.
- If you've recently married or changed your name, ensure your name has been updated with the Social Security Administration (SSA) before you file your tax return.
- Verify the SSNs and birth dates of any dependents you're claiming.
Sub-heading: Reviewing AGI or IP PIN
- Make sure you're using the correct Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from your previous year's accepted tax return. This is often printed on your tax transcript or your prior year's tax form.
- If you have an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN), ensure you've entered it accurately. This is a six-digit number issued by the IRS to certain taxpayers to prevent identity theft.
Sub-heading: Addressing Dependent Issues
- Communicate with any co-parents or guardians to ensure only one party claims a child as a dependent. The IRS system will reject both returns if the same dependent is claimed twice.
- Ensure the dependent meets all the IRS criteria to be claimed on your return.
Sub-heading: Resolving Duplicate Filings or Identity Theft Concerns
- If your return was rejected because a return with your SSN was already accepted, first verify you haven't accidentally filed twice.
- If you suspect identity theft, you'll need to take immediate action. This typically involves contacting the IRS directly and may require you to file a paper return with supporting documentation.
Step 4: Resubmitting Your Return – The Iteration Process
After carefully correcting the errors, you can now resubmit your return electronically through your tax software. Each attempt counts towards the five-time limit.
Sub-heading: A Checklist Before Each Resubmission:
- Have I meticulously reviewed the rejection code and its explanation?
- Have I made the necessary corrections to the exact data fields indicated?
- Have I double-checked all critical identifying information (SSNs, names, dates of birth, AGI/IP PIN)?
- Is my internet connection stable for the resubmission?
Step 5: When to Consider Paper Filing – The Final Resort
If you've exhausted your five electronic filing attempts, or if the nature of the rejection makes e-filing impossible (e.g., confirmed identity theft where the IRS advises paper filing), you will need to file a paper return.
Sub-heading: Important Considerations for Paper Filing After Rejection:
- Print and Sign: Make sure to print your corrected return, sign it in ink, and date it. Both spouses must sign a joint return.
- Attach Rejection Details: It's highly advisable to include a copy of the rejection notification and a brief explanation of the corrective actions you took with your paper return. Some sources suggest writing "Rejected Electronic Return - (Date)" in red at the top of the first page.
- Mail Timely: Ensure your paper return is postmarked by the later of the original due date (including any extensions) or 10 calendar days after the date the IRS notified you of the rejection. This is crucial for your return to be considered timely filed.
- Longer Processing Times: Be aware that paper-filed returns take significantly longer for the IRS to process compared to e-filed returns. This means any refund you're expecting will also take longer to arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions to help you navigate IRS e-file rejections:
Tip: Slow down at important lists or bullet points.
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How to know if my e-file was rejected?
You will typically receive an email notification from your tax software provider or directly from the IRS (if you filed via IRS Free File) indicating your return was rejected. This notification will usually include a rejection code and a brief explanation.
How to find my Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from the previous year?
You can find your prior year's AGI on Line 11 of your Form 1040. If you don't have a copy of your previous return, you can request a tax transcript from the IRS online, by mail, or by phone.
How to get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)?
If you are issued an IP PIN, the IRS will mail it to you each year. If you did not receive one or have misplaced it, you can retrieve it online through the IRS's Get an IP PIN tool, or if you are unable to use the online tool, you can request it by mail.
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
How to correct a misspelled name or incorrect SSN?
You will need to go back into your tax software, locate the section where personal information is entered, and carefully correct the spelling of the name or the digits of the SSN. After correcting, resubmit your return. If the mismatch is due to an IRS record error, you may need to contact the SSA to update their records first.
How to proceed if my return was rejected due to identity theft?
If you suspect identity theft, immediately respond to the IRS notification. You will likely need to file Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, and then file your return by paper, attaching all necessary documentation, including the rejection notification.
How to check the status of my resubmitted e-file?
After resubmitting, you can usually check the status through your tax software's platform. The IRS also offers a "Where's My Refund?" tool or "Get Transcript" service to check the processing status once your return is accepted.
How to avoid common e-file rejections?
- File early: This gives you more time to resolve any rejections before the deadline.
- Double-check everything: Before clicking "e-file," meticulously review all personal information, SSNs, dates of birth, and your prior year's AGI.
- Use reliable software: Ensure your tax software is updated and reputable.
How to get help if I'm stuck correcting an e-file rejection?
Most tax software providers offer customer support that can help you interpret rejection codes and guide you through the correction process. You can also consult the IRS website or contact a tax professional for assistance.
How to file a paper return after multiple e-file rejections?
Print your complete tax return, sign it in blue or black ink, attach any required forms (like W-2s), and include a copy of the rejection notice. Mail it to the appropriate IRS address, which can be found in the Form 1040 instructions or on the IRS website.
How to know if my paper return was received by the IRS?
The IRS does not typically confirm receipt of paper-filed returns. You can send it via certified mail with a return receipt requested for proof of mailing and delivery. Keep a copy of your entire return and all mailing receipts for your records.
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